A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Cordoba vs. Zaragoza for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cordoba and Zaragoza can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cordoba

Cordoba is a historical, beautiful, and colorful town. With stunning beauty, Cordoba attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Cordoba travel costs.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a cultural, historical, and compact city. With stunning beauty, Zaragoza attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Zaragoza travel costs.

Cordoba and Zaragoza: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cordoba than Zaragoza. While Zaragoza is larger than Cordoba, Cordoba has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cordoba is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights, while Zaragoza attracts visitors for its shopping. Cordoba is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known for its mix of Roman, Islamic, and Spanish architecture, its whitewashed buildings and streets filled with flowers, and its handcrafted leatherwork. It is also well known for La Mezquita. Zaragoza is famous for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Cordoba different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zaragoza and Cordoba. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Cordoba is an amazing town to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Cordoba on the map. The city is filled with monuments that reflect its past. The Great Mosque (La Mezquita) is one of the most iconic sights. You can also visit Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, Palacio de Viana, and Puente Romano.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.


Is the Food Better in Cordoba or Zaragoza? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Both Cordoba and Zaragoza offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Cordoba is an experience not to be missed. Like much of Spain, international travelers will have to adjust to the shifted meal schedule which means most meals are served are later than they are in other parts of Europe. The ingredients are fresh and popular dishes include Salmorejo (a tomato based soup), Rabo De Toro (stewed oxtail), and Flamenquín (deep-fried pork roll).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Cordoba or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Cordoba is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Cordoba has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There are cocktail bars, Flamenco shows, tapas tours, and local pubs that make for a great night out. The city offers something for everyone, whatever your style.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Cordoba or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Cordoba is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

Cordoba offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. It's old town is one of the most enchanting in Andalusia. There are whitewashed houses that line flower-filled streets and its compact enough to take a leisurely stroll.

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cordoba. You'll find souvenir shops selling local pottery, traditional jewelry, and handcrafted leatherwork, so this is a nice place to pick up something to remember your trip.

Is Cordoba or Zaragoza More Beautiful?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Cordoba and Zaragoza.

With stunning beauty, Cordoba attracts visitors from all around. The city is beautifully lit up at night, making this a great time to explore.

Zaragoza is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a small city that's at its most beautiful at night when the buildings light up and the streets become quiet.

Is Cordoba or Zaragoza Better for Families?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Both Cordoba and Zaragoza are nice to visit with kids.

Cordoba is a family-friendly place to visit. Horse-drawn carriage rides and then a visit to the Royal Stables of Cordoba is a great option for horse-lovers. The city also has a zoo and an impressive park - Ciudad de Los Niños. If you're willing to head out of town, about 10 kilometers away you'll find Aquasierra Waterpark.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly town. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.


Is Cordoba or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Both Cordoba and Zaragoza are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cordoba is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautifully lit up at night, this is a truly romantic city. There are horse-drawn carriage rides, nice parks, and an impressive botanical garden. There are also many great restaurants that couples can explore.

Zaragoza makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Cordoba or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Cordoba is notable for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cordoba is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. It's well-established on the backpacker circuit, so you'll find plenty of hostels around town and many opportunities to meet up with other travelers.

Zaragoza is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Cordoba or Zaragoza Better for Students?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Cordoba is an amazing town to visit for students. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Cordoba is a great destination for students. It's a top study abroad destination for international students. The university is excellent and the city is easy to navigate. It's a cultural city with a great student-friendly atmosphere.

Plenty of students visit Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.


Is Cordoba or Zaragoza Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zaragoza. There are buses and trams around the city.

Cordoba has some public transit options. There are 15 bus lines that are operated by Aucorsa.

Is Cordoba or Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Zaragoza

Cordoba and Zaragoza both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Cordoba is a very walkable destination. It's small and compact enough to explore on foot.

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Cordoba Worth Visiting? and Is Zaragoza Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cordoba and Zaragoza. In our opinion, Cordoba has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cordoba than Zaragoza. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Zaragoza. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cordoba, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cordoba than Zaragoza. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cordoba that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Zaragoza if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cordoba.


  • How many days in Cordoba or Zaragoza? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Zaragoza 1-3

One day in Cordoba or Zaragoza?

The beautiful town of Cordoba offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Zaragoza, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Cordoba is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cordoba, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Zaragoza, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zaragoza has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Cordoba is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Zaragoza is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Cordoba is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zaragoza. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zaragoza. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Zaragoza or Cordoba?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cordoba Prices
    Spain Prices
    Zaragoza Prices
    Spain Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cordoba 151
    Zaragoza 156

The average daily cost (per person) in Cordoba is €151, while the average daily cost in Zaragoza is €156. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cordoba and Zaragoza in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Zaragoza 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Zaragoza 130
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Zaragoza

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Zaragoza? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cordoba


Hotels in Zaragoza


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cordoba Hotel Prices and Zaragoza Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Zaragoza 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

  • Medina Azahara Cordoba, with Transfer by Bus: $33
  • Private transfer in Cordoba from Airport or Train Station: $54
  • Private Transfer IN or OUT in Upscale Vehicle with Professional Driver: $130
  • Cordoba to Granada Private Transfer: $238

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $65
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $86
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $86
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $94
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $108
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $172

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Prices for flights to both Zaragoza and Cordoba change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cordoba 58
    Zaragoza 71
Typical Food Prices in Cordoba

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cordoba are as follows:


  • Ice Cream
    1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cordoba

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cordoba.

  • Paella and Salmorejo 2-Hour Cooking Class in Córdoba: $48
  • Feed the Fire Cordoba Cooking Class & Market Tour: $151

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zaragoza

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zaragoza.

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $106
  • Complete tour, one thousand and one nights experience with dinner: $210

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Zaragoza 35
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cordoba

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cordoba are as follows:


  • Garden Entrance Fee
    6.00

Tours and Activities in Cordoba

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cordoba are as follows:

  • Cordoba in 1 Day - Walking Tour - Audioguide in 7 languages: $8.08
  • Córdoba Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $8.61
  • Córdoba Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $9.31
  • Guided Tour of the Jewish Quarter of Córdoba: $11
  • Guided tour of the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba in Spanish: $13
  • Walking Tour in Heritage center of Cordoba: $15
  • Patios tour in Cordoba: $16
  • Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba Guided Tour : $16
  • Cordoba Jewish Quartier Guided Tour: $16
  • Medina Azahara Experience Without Transportation: $17
  • Visit in Spanish to the Cathedral Mosque. Does not include entrance ticket: $19
  • Guided Tour to the Popular Patios of Cordoba: $19

Tours and Activities in Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.22
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.29
  • Private Quest Experience in Zaragoza and the Napoleonic Wars: $11
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19
  • Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket: $19
  • Combo Amusement Park and Aquarium entry ticket: $41
  • Zaragoza : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $48
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Zaragoza Private Custom Tour with Local Guide: $48
  • Private custom tour with a local guide Zaragoza: $48
  • Private Tour with a Local Guide: $51
  • Private Tour with a Local Guide: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Zaragoza 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Cordoba

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cordoba:

  • Evening Wine Tasting Córdoba: $26
  • Cordoba Wine Tasting and Tapas : $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Zaragoza

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Zaragoza:

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $100
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $102


When comparing the travel costs between Cordoba and Zaragoza, we can see that Zaragoza is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cordoba Expensive? and Is Zaragoza Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cordoba. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Zaragoza, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Cordoba or Zaragoza?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cordoba or Zaragoza in the Summer?

Both Zaragoza and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the family-friendly experiences.

Cordoba is around the same temperature as Zaragoza in the summer. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Zaragoza. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Zaragoza. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

Both Zaragoza and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

In the autumn, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Zaragoza. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cordoba in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in October than Zaragoza. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zaragoza in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Zaragoza. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zaragoza for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 10°C (50°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Zaragoza during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zaragoza in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Zaragoza. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Zaragoza in the spring for the natural beauty.

Cordoba is around the same temperature as Zaragoza in the spring. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Zaragoza. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Cordoba

Cordoba Zaragoza
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in)